Fuel cells are electrochemical devices that convert chemical energy into electrical energy. They are used in a variety of applications, including portable devices, vehicles, and power plants. One of the challenges in developing fuel cells is finding materials that are both active and stable.

A team of researchers at the University of California, Berkeley has discovered that thin films of certain materials have surprisingly high reactivity, which could lead to better fuel cells. The researchers studied thin films of platinum and palladium, which are two metals that are commonly used in fuel cells. They found that when the films were only a few atoms thick, they were much more reactive than thicker films.

The researchers believe that the high reactivity of thin films is due to their unique electronic structure. In thin films, the atoms are more closely packed together than in thicker films, which allows for stronger interactions between the atoms. This increased interaction leads to a higher density of electrons on the surface of the film, which makes the film more reactive.

The researchers' findings could have important implications for the development of fuel cells. By using thin films, it may be possible to create fuel cells that are more efficient and more durable. This could lead to a wider range of applications for fuel cells, including use in cars, trucks, and airplanes.

Source: University of California, Berkeley